Helen Oy, one of Finland’s largest energy companies, is joining forces with MAN Energy Solutions and PEM electrolysis specialist H-TEC SYSTEMS to develop a groundbreaking green hydrogen production plant near Helsinki. The 3-megawatt pilot plant, situated close to Helsinki’s district heating network and Vuosaari Harbour, marks Helen Oy’s first major hydrogen initiative, aimed at building the company’s expertise in large-scale hydrogen production while enhancing the flexibility of Finland’s energy system.
The project, known as 3H2, will incorporate three PEM (Proton Exchange Membrane) electrolyzers that will produce up to 1,350 kilograms of green hydrogen per day. Powered by renewable energy from Helen Oy’s portfolio, the hydrogen will be distributed to industrial customers, refueling stations, and through pipelines to nearby hydrogen refueling sites. Additionally, the waste heat from the production process will be integrated into Helsinki’s district heating network, providing a more sustainable energy solution for the city.
MAN Energy Solutions, acting as the EPC (engineering, procurement, and construction) contractor, will manage the hydrogen section of the plant, ensuring the installation and commissioning of hydrogen-related equipment. H-TEC SYSTEMS, a leader in PEM electrolysis technology and a subsidiary of MAN Energy Solutions (soon to be rebranded as Quest One), will supply the three ME450 PEM electrolyzers, which form the heart of the green hydrogen production process.
Sari Mannonen, Senior Vice President of New Business & Hydrogen at Helen Oy, expressed her enthusiasm for the collaboration: “The 3H2 project is the first of its kind globally, integrating electricity, heating, transportation, and hydrogen, while offering flexibility across these sectors. We are proud to partner with MAN Energy Solutions, a company renowned for its world-class expertise in the industry.”
PEM Electrolysis: The Future of Green Hydrogen
The PEM electrolysis technology being used in the 3H2 project is well-suited for coupling with renewable energy sources like wind and solar due to its efficiency and adaptability to fluctuating power supply. This cutting-edge technology uses less electricity per kilogram of hydrogen produced and does not involve harmful chemicals, making it an environmentally friendly solution for producing high-purity hydrogen.
Alexander Stöckler, Head of Sales, Tendering & Project Management at MAN Energy Solutions, emphasized the significance of the project: “Green hydrogen is the key to a climate-neutral future, and it’s crucial that energy suppliers like Helen Oy lead the way in building plants to gain valuable operational experience. Industrial-scale production is essential to achieving economies of scale, reducing costs, and meeting the growing demand for green hydrogen.”
Robin von Plettenberg, CEO of H-TEC SYSTEMS, also highlighted the importance of this partnership: “Combining our expertise in PEM electrolysis with MAN Energy Solutions’ extensive experience in plant engineering allows us to offer a comprehensive solution for green hydrogen production. We are delighted that Helen Oy has entrusted us with this critical project, setting the foundation for a climate-neutral energy supply in Finland and Scandinavia.”
A Step Toward a Green Hydrogen Future
This collaboration marks an important step for Helen Oy in its commitment to decarbonizing Finland’s energy landscape. Construction of the plant is set to begin soon, with the goal of advancing hydrogen technology and scaling up production to meet the needs of Finland’s industrial and energy sectors. This project will serve as a blueprint for future green hydrogen developments in the region, further accelerating the transition to a sustainable, net-zero energy future.
